Wednesday, September 29, 2010

The technology rug has been yanked out from under our kids. Almost two weeks ago, I HAD it. As in ‘up to here’ and literally crying because of the behavior of one of our kids ~ which included the phrase “I can do it if I WANT to.”

Oh, really?

As of that night, we pulled the plug, batteries and what-have-you on literally everything. No tv. No Wii. No Leapsters. Nothing.

They cried. They fussed. They whined. And then you know what?

They lived.

All of them have started drawing more {to the tune of a ream and a half of paper}. They have been playing games, building, playing the piano, reading, and PRETENDING.

We did watch one movie together as a family on Sunday night, but otherwise it has been amazing to watch them kick up the creativity several a gazillion notches.

Oh, you're brave. And wise. I so need to do that very thing, but I'm scared. Of what it will mean for 'my computer time.' Oh, the lack of discipline on my part (and in my heart!). Good for you! We do have to set intense limits on Wii and computer usage (like, they may go weeks without being allowed to play) especially for our middle who gets very "involved."

We unplugged a while back. Generally, we might watch one family movie a week...and hubby/I catch up on news after everyone is in bed. We do use the computer for some of our school work...but, we're unplugging as much as we can...my kids are so peaceful, play more imaginative games and love drawing/coloring/painting...I'm convinced...all those techy things are sucking the creativity out of us (of course, as I say that as I sit here blogging)!

Yes, Yes, YES!!! It supports my theories, and that's why I don't want our kids to EVER play video games or any of that stuff. Right now, they play, build, draw, write words, "read" books, and pretend work at an office job. I hope never to ruin them with a glut of junk. (Now, if only my husband was similarly convinced.)

Glad to hear it's going well! We don't have cable (the hubby & I watch shows online when we watch them), so the kids just watch videos occasionally. We do have a Wii, but it's played only in moderation. They spend hours playing, pretending, drawing, coloring and reading. It's a blessing!

I really want to do that too. But I need it for a break sometimes. I know that's so bad to say. I sometimes pretend to watch a show with my older son when the toddler is napping, but I really fall asleep on the couch. Good for you! I'll do it too...someday.

Glad to hear it's going well! We don't have cable (the hubby & I watch shows online when we watch them), so the kids just watch videos occasionally. We do have a Wii, but it's played only in moderation. They spend hours playing, pretending, drawing, coloring and reading. It's a blessing!

We unplugged a while back. Generally, we might watch one family movie a week...and hubby/I catch up on news after everyone is in bed. We do use the computer for some of our school work...but, we're unplugging as much as we can...my kids are so peaceful, play more imaginative games and love drawing/coloring/painting...I'm convinced...all those techy things are sucking the creativity out of us (of course, as I say that as I sit here blogging)!

I am a mom to 4 children and wife to a wonderful man. We homeschool all four children, and my days are spent trying to keep up with them all…and the house…and life in general.

My passion is teaching my kids and helping other families in their homeschool journey. Working with children has always
been something I have enjoyed, and I love that the online world has provided a
way to share ideas and resources with other families all over the world. The last few years has brought speaking opportunities at blogging conferences, homeschool groups, and also homeschool conventions.